TRAVEL / TOURISM (Morocco)

Morocco has a wide range of natural and historical assets, including a rich and varied cultural heritage. The tourism sector contributes with 3 to 4 % of GDP and accounts for 7 to 10 % of foreign currency earnings.

In reference to the first semester of 1994, foreign currency earnings from tourism activities 11,300 millions DH, roughly the same amount as 1993.

In 1995, the overall number of foreign tourists went down by 765 867 in comparison with 1994, a decrease of 33,4 %. This is partly due to the sharp decline in the number of tourists from the Arab coutries (including the Arab Maghreb).

Traditional markets have lost ground : France, Italy , Germany (3,6%) and Spain (20,6%). On the other hand, the emergence of new markets has opened up new prospects. Australia (+ 81.5%), Canada (+ 34.1%), Japan (+9.7%), C.I.S (+67.4%), Brazil (+17.5%) and the E.A.U (+ 22.9%).

Earnings have been roughly the same as in 1993 : 11,410 million Dh in 1994, against 11,400 million Dh in 1993. Aside from March (+ 11.2%), July (+ 18.4%), August (+ 21.4%) and September (+ 0.03%), the other months of the year were marked by a decline in tourism earnings.

For tourists, especially those who come from the northern European countries in search of sunshine and a differect culture, Morocco is a perfect destination.There are various different alternative activities for the visitors; the oases in the middle of sandy deserts, mountains with snow covered peaks, mountain valleys with widflowers blooming and magnificent Mediterranean beaches in a warm and sunny climate nearly all year along.

There are plenty of opportunities for sports-minded holiday makers. Especially, golf, skiing and snorkelling is very popular.

All Moroccan cities are full of ancient mosques, palaces and minarets to see. The museums of Morocca are also very rich and unique. Generally, Morocco is an exciting but safe place for tourists.